bugbear wrote in message ...
Bob wrote:
I want to drill several 3/4" holes for bench dogs in a laminated workbench
top (prior to assembly) that will be 3 inches thick. My preferred approach
would be my drill press with a 3/4" Forstner bit. The bits I have will
barely hand 2 1/2" depth. I need suggestions for the deeper hole. Right
now, I'm looking at buying a good old fashioned Brace and bit.

I'd create the 2 1/2 holes with your forstener, the
continue with a 3/4" auger in a brace. The brace and auger
should be obtinable "for cheap" at any flea market
or yard sale. Make sure the auger is in good shape.

Maybe I'm missing something here but why the insistence on using a
Forstner bit on a through hole? Why not just use an auger bit (manual
or powered) for the entire length of the hole? Maybe clamp a piece of
scrap on the other side to minimize blowout or BugBear's
suggestion....

The "normal" trick for high quality work with a brace
auger is to drill until the lead screw comes out on
the far side, and then re-enter the lead into this hole
from the other side.

To make things easier, a bit gauge or piece of tape wrapped around the
auger bit can be used so you know when to stop boring.

In this way the "face" is cut cleanly but the nickers
at the edge of the auger, eliminating tearing
or splitting.

BugBear

Cheers,
Mike